Despite its pretty exterior, Edinburgh has a pretty ugly past.

From playing host to over 300 witch trials before burning was abolished in 1736; to the city streets being terrorised by infamous Victorian serial killers, Burke and Hare, in the 19th century. 

Nowadays though, the city is much more renowned for its attractive architecture, tourist appeal, and of course, the part it played in the formation of everyone's favourite fantasy series, Harry Potter. So with that said, we hope you'll find these four flexible work spaces the city has to offer more magical than murderous, more delightful than deadly, and more terrific than terrifying...

A firm NearU favourite, Clockwise are well-known for offering stunning spaces across the UK. And their Edinburgh Leith location is no different. Organised around a central common area complete with a mix of work booths, lounge areas and coworking desks (plus a spiral staircase for good measure), Clockwise has everything you'd need for a productive day.

We love the mix of industrial and modern design elements, which allow this workspace to blend seamlessly with its neighbours on the city's historic waterfront, the Commercial Quay. They've also been sure to retain some original features of the property, like wooden beams, exposed brickwork and block windows.

We might be getting a little too niche with that reference. But pop culture aside, Leith has become known as one of the most iconic cultural areas of the city, with plenty to see, eat, drink, and do. While it still has the same essence as the rest of the city, its waterfront location adds a whole new element which will have you feeling like you're on a seaside holiday. Plus, the sea is good for you! Studies have shown that a big breath of that ocean air and a look out on the horizon leaves us feeling more tranquil and at peace - perfect for de-stressing after a long day at work.

Historically known as Scotland's centre for social innovation, The Melting Pot is one of the oldest coworking communities in the world. While they have all the necessities of an office you might expect, from hot desks, to meeting rooms, to event space, they also offer additional services. Like their Coworking Accelerator, which helps budding entrepreneurs get their coworking ideas off the ground. And their free incubation programme, Good Ideas, which aims to help social enterprises, charities and non-profit campaigns see success.

The Melting Pot might be one of the oldest coworking communities in the world, but did you catch our recent interview with the founder of the first official coworking space? Block, in Stockholm, Sweden, claims ancient origins stretching back over two decades - check out the full article here.

A staff favourite here at NearU, you'll find this cute cafe sandwiched between The Melting Pot and Landmark in the quaint area of Grassmarket. Serving a great range of hot and cold drinks, as well as healthy lunchtime options, this place is the perfect spot for a midday pick-me-up when your productivity is waning. Plus, if you choose to eat-in you can take in some lovely views of the Square.

You can't go far wrong with this industry giant. One of the oldest hands when it comes to serviced offices, you can count on Landmark to provide everything you need for a successful meeting. Whether you're brainstorming with colleagues internally or trying to impress an important client externally, their city centre location is ideal for anyone travelling in from afar.

Their Montrose meeting room features a plasma screen, LCD projector, disabled access, and has plenty of natural daylight flooding in to keep you attentive.

*this price is reflective of a meeting room-only booking.

If you're looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city centre, why not give Citibase a try? Situated in the suburb of South Gyle, this flexible workspace is just a two mile journey from the airport - perfect for anyone flying frequently for work.

You'll find everything you need here from super fast wifi to ergonomic furniture, as well as more specialised services like personalised call handling and admin support. There is also an on-site car park in case you're planning on driving in.

If you're coming in from out of town and want to lounge in a bit of luxury, why not stay at the nearby Edinburgh Marriott Hotel just a stone's throw from Edinburgh Gyleview? With spacious rooms, an on-site fitness centre and pool, all for great pre-flight rates you can experience a high-end stay without the high-end price.